Want hot wings with that building permit?

Talking Points ... with Shonna Riggs

It wasn’t a New Orleans Saints playoff-ticket giveaway that had people lined up by the hundreds at the St. Charles Parish Courthouse the last few days of December.

Instead parish staffers were issuing building permits left and right to contractors and homeowners before strict new building codes took affect with the dawning of the New Year.

Kristi Murray, senior permit coordinator for St. Charles Parish tells the Herald-Guide that post-Katrina guidelines that regulate construction are tough and unlike anything the parish has had in place before.

“We know that we issued at least 245 permits and we’re still counting,” Murray says.

Last week I told you about lots of new businesses coming to Boutte, including Shoe Show, Cato’s clothing store, two as-yet unnamed supermarkets, and a Sicily’s buffet resturant.
But let’s not forget Luling.

My sources tell me that Rick Whitney Jr.’s strip mall on Paul Mallaird is set to open in 60 days or so with a restaurant called Wingzz, possibly a sandwich shop, possibly a clothing store, and definitely a chiropractor.

Love that progress!

And speaking of progress, do you have a small or start-up business to promote?

“A good place to start is either the Knights of Columbus or the Rotary Club. Their members include lots of movers and shakers and experienced business people who can help you.”

3. Get a list of other businesses in the area and talk to the owners - pick their brains for information and tips that can help you.

Because you likely won’t have time to visit all business owners personally, send letters to expand “your reach.”
“Let other companies know you’re in business and what services you have to offer,” says Faucheux.

6. Showcase your goods and services everywhere you can, including business expos and anywhere else you can get space to set up a booth.

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A mourning Bayou Gauche community reschedules parade - 3740 views
As the Bayou Gauche community mourns the death of resident Bart Dufrene Jr., who was killed Monday in an a boat crash on Bayou Des Allemands, its annual Christmas on the Bayou Boat Parade has been rescheduled to Dec. 10.